grab bars

[v1rtu0s1ty]

are vertical grab bars in shower for old days? not contemporary?

[MattInFortCollins]

Neil:

I'm not a pro, so take this for what it's worth. In his book, John states a preference for horizontal grab bars because he sees them as more useful. He suggests putting one on the wall with the plumbing since that is the direction people typically face most of the time they are in the shower.

In my own (not-necessarily-well-informed) view, both vertical and horizontal have a place. I'm thinking of putting a vertical one just inside my door to aid someone in stepping over the curb.

FWIW, here is a site I found that sells a variety of grab bars:

DiaDot

Matt

[silverfox]

Contemporary or not...when you get to be my age and with the thought of getting still older you begin to realize the safety factor of grab bars. I moved into a house that was owned by a very old couple and there were 3 grab bars in the tub/showers. At the time I thought that it was unsightly overkill...until I started using them. One of them actually saved me from a serious fall one time when I slipped badly. I am remodeling the house and the new shower will have grab bars.
Mike

[v1rtu0s1ty]

Mike,

Yep, I quite agree with the reality. I'll install it then!

Thanks!

Neil

[Tool Guy - Kg]

Plan for them ahead of time with 2 x 12's in the wall and you can use traditional fasteners to install them after all the finished walls are in place.

[v1rtu0s1ty]

Hi Kurt,

I didn't get what you mean by 2x12's, what is this?

Thanks.

Neil

[RubberFrog]

Originally Posted by v1rtu0s1ty

Hi Kurt,

I didn't get what you mean by 2x12's, what is this?

Thanks.

Neil

Wood 2x12's. Fasten them between the joists. That way you will have something solid to attach your bars to.

[silverfox]

Yeah...bridge between the studs with 2 X 12's wherever you think you might want one now or in the future. Then make yourself a sketch where they are located...you won't remember after the wall is closed up. Make them nice and solid so you have something to screw into. You surely don't want to just use the backer as the holder for these and it isn't always easy or possible to use the 16 inch centered studs. I usually put a few in different places in case I change my mind or the owner changes their mind or wants to add one as they get older. Cheap insurance to get them where you want them. Makes the wall stronger too. Good luck.
Mike

[v1rtu0s1ty]

Oh no, I can't do put those 2x12s anymore because tiles are already installed. However, I remember seeing a 2x4 stud. Can I fasten it there? I'm thinking that's it going to be weak if I do it.

[Rob The Glass Man]

Originally Posted by v1rtu0s1ty

Oh no, I can't do put those 2x12s anymore because tiles are already installed. However, I remember seeing a 2x4 stud. Can I fasten it there? I'm thinking that's it going to be weak if I do it.

I install grab bars in showers on occation. Usually this is an afterthought and nobody puts any backing (wood) to screw them to. I will usually find 1 stud and start there. For the other end (hollow wall) I will drill and use anchors. BEFORE I put the hollow end on I put a big glob of silicone on the back of the mounting plate. Then put the screws in. I know some on here will say that isin't good but I've done it enough and never had any come off. I can't see it coming off unless the tile gives from the wall.

If you are going verticle and find a stud in the right place you're good to go.

Rob

[SalidaGreg]

Neil,
Can't remember what or where, but I know there are grab bars that have an expanding spiders for sheet rock installations. And they were handicap rated, so substantial.

Search the net. It's out there.

Greg

[steve,from Turlock]

I always put 2 by 4's at top of tub level and 2 by 6's between 30 and 36 inches from floor. If I have to put bars in a tub or shower I didn't make,I'll find studs above the tile and angle the bars so I can get at least 2 screws on ea. end into wood. Don't really trust the plastic ancors with all 3 screws.

[Tool Guy - Kg]

Greg is talking about Wing-it anchors for grab bars. I've used them before. They are easy to put in and mega-strong.

[silverfox]

yup...there are after market things out there that work so just look around as suggested, Neil. I didn't realize that the wall was already complete. No need to worry.
Mike

[v1rtu0s1ty]

Thanks guys. I will do more homeworks